Netscape Says Oracle, Novell Prefer Its Browser

Netscape Communications Corp. said its Navigator has been chosen by Oracle Corp. and Novell Inc. as their preferred Internet browser, giving Netscape a boost in its battle with Redmond, Wash.-based Microsoft Corp. Mountain View-based Netscape said last week that it would offer a stand-alone Internet browser, reversing a strategy set last fall that alienated customers and distributors. Netscape is trying to retain its dominant share of the browser market against Microsoft’s Internet Explorer, by offering the browser alone, expanding its use among consumers and bundling it with other computer products. Netscape commands about 65% to 70% of the browser market, analysts have said, while Microsoft claims about 30%. Redwood Shores-based Oracle and Novell of Orem, Utah, said they will bundle Navigator with selected products. Oracle makes database software and applications, and Novell makes networking software.